Democrats Contend GOP Evading Financial Disclosure Rules

August 24, 1995

WASHINGTON (AP) _ The Democratic National Committee contended Wednesday that its Republican counterpart is evading financial disclosure rules by using a non-profit foundation to raise money and promote its views.

The DNC filed a complaint with the Federal Election Commission alleging that the tax-exempt National Policy Forum is really an arm of the Republican National Committee and should be required to comply with disclosure and fund-raising rules under federal election law.

The forum, founded two years ago by the RNC, is headed by party Chairman Haley Barbour. The Democrats alleged it has received $2.5 million in financing from the GOP committee and serves chiefly to disseminate the committee’s message, showcase Republican candidates and provide benefits to RNC donors.

RNC spokesman Chuck Greener said he had not seen the Democratic complaint and had no immediate comment.